The Yemeni test and the Sudanese explosion

Hope for peace in one part of the Arab world comes as fresh conflict breaks out in Africa, while the contours of the global diplomatic map are redrawn

The Yemeni test and the Sudanese explosion

World diplomacy has shifted after the China-brokered breakthrough in relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran.

The planned resumption of bilateral relations is proceeding as outlined in the announcement made in Beijing in March. It was a significant moment and it will have far-reaching implications for the Middle East and beyond.

The first test of the agreement is underway in Yemen, where progress has already been made through meetings with the Houthis in Sana'a to discuss continuing the ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and comprehensive political solutions.

Al Majalla’s May issue features extensive coverage of this historic moment for global diplomacy – and the questions, challenges and promises it holds –from a range of national and international perspectives.

The cover story includes an analysis of the implications of the understanding between Riyadh and Tehran on the Yemeni settlement, outlining the details of the proposed solution and the challenges that must be overcome.

The cover story includes an analysis of the implications of the understanding between Riyadh and Tehran on the Yemeni settlement, outlining the details of the proposed solution and the challenges that must be overcome.

Yemeni writers and researchers also present their views and hopes on the country's future. They cover the desired structure of the state, including the relationship between the capital, Sana'a, and the provinces.

There is scrutiny of what is needed to end the cycle of fighting, as well as to enable the return of uprooted Yemenis who fled their homes after the Houthis took over the country.

We also retrace the steps of the Chinese mediators' role in seeking Tehran's commitment to stop arming the Houthis.

Ceasefire and new-found security

The ceasefire and moves toward permanent peace in Yemen can transform the region's security and that of the crucial Bab al-Mandab sea lane. That could help boost trade and energy exports vital to Beijing, the region, and the world.

As we were finalising the new issue of Al Majalla, the situation in Sudan unexpectedly exploded. The war of words between its two generals exploded into open and violent conflict between the forces of Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, or Hemedti.

We had to keep up with the rapid and far-reaching internal and external developments and initiatives to stop the fighting and ease the suffering of the Sudanese people.

Two generals and four potential futures for Sudan

In the "War of the Two Generals", we examine the roots of the conflict between two former allies in Sudan, how it escalated and the other major events that have brought the country to where it is now.

We present four scenarios for the future of Sudan, including one where the country continues to "walk on embers" and the flames of conflict continue to rage.

There is also a look at Saudi Arabia's leading role in evacuating its citizens alongside thousands of nationals from dozens of Arab and foreign countries.

We present four scenarios for the future of Sudan, including one where the country continues to "walk on embers" and the flames of conflict continue to rage.

More broadly, this issue also features analyses criticising "militia intellectuals" who praise violence.

A summit, a crown and a vote

The month ahead includes three significant events: the Arab summit hosted by Saudi Arabia, the Turkish elections, and the coronation ceremony of King Charles III which took place on 6 May.

Al Majalla offers in-depth previews, including an analysis of the scenarios for the Turkish elections that are set to take place on the centenary of the republic's founding.

We also provide a forward-looking view of the UK's future, its internal condition, and the challenges the new king has faced since ascending to the throne last year.

The Arab summit is being held at a critical stage that deals with several Arab and regional issues, including the return of Syria to the Arab fold, particularly following the visit of Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his meeting with President Bashar al-Assad in April.

Saleh Muslim interview

Saleh Muslim, the Kurdish leader in the military-political bloc that controls north-eastern Syria and the head of the Democratic Union Party, opened up to Al Majalla on several issues, including the Arab rapprochement and the future of Syria.

He welcomed the Arab rapprochement with Damascus but warned against Turkish reconciliation, stating that "Syria cannot return to before 2011," when protests and the crisis began.

The issue also covers financial challenges in America, China's efforts to build an international economic alliance to compete with it, and the advantages and risks of artificial intelligence. We also delve into the Morocco's automotive industry.

We also have a tribute to the late and much-celebrated Saudi singer Talal Maddah, known as "the voice of the earth" or "the mood-maker," as we remember him and his career.

We have a tribute to the late and much-celebrated Saudi singer Talal Maddah, known as "the voice of the earth" or "the mood-maker," as we remember him and his career.

And finally, we visit the Lebanese capital of Beirut and its journey on the path of oblivion, in addition to a contribution and interview on the vital role of translation in society.

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